Summer weather (May to October) normally brings steady tradewinds and occasional showers while winter weather (October to May) is less predictable. Mahalo! Sponsored Content >. Also, Kalalau Trail permits can now only be booked up to 90 days in advance. Note that you must book and pay for a parking space here in advance. As long as the water isnt above your knees, you should be fine to cross. It definitely would not be safe. I was sweating buckets the entire time it was TERRIFYING. And theres a grotto like area to the left where you can sit on the rocks in the shade. Some pit toilets, that leave much to be desired, are also to your left (near where the trail continues and/or heads back to Hanakapiai Falls). Kalalau Valley is situated on the northwest side of Hawaii's Kaua'i island. The only way to gain access to this esteemed locale is for the athletically-inclined as it requires an 11-mile hike from Kee Beach. Past the waterfall, there are some caves on the beach where some people (illegally) camp. No list of consummate backpacking trips would be complete without mention of the 1 N Pali Coast State Park is touted as one of the most beautiful places on earth. Both campsites have compostable toilets, shelters, and easy access to drinking water (which you must treat before drinking). We had hiked 11 miles on the Kalalau Trail, set up camp and witnessed an epic moonrise the day before. The Napali Coast's Kalalau Valley at the lookout from above. All you need is a car and a map that includes Highway 550, Kokee Road. The valley is surrounded by cliffs more than 2,000 feet (610m) high. The Kalalau Trail provides the only land access to this part of the rugged coast. A limited number of permits are sold for camping in Kalalau Valley every year by the Hawai'i Department of Land and Natural Resources (DLNR), although parking for campers is no longer allowed at the trail head. There are natural forests spread all over the valley that are home to many species of animals such as the rare giant panda. The Kalalau Trail on the Hawaiian island of Kauai weaves through one of the world's most famous natural wonders, the Na Pali coast. There just isnt enough useful information about the trek online, which is precisely why I created this guide! The trail traverses the Hono o Na Pali Natural Area Reserve in the small hanging valleys of Hoolulu and Waiahuakua before entering Hanakoa Valley. The valley is one of the earth's most beautiful natural wonders, including a remote beach framed by grooved peaks. The Internet failed my frantic and very specific Google queries about car break-ins and trail safety and I went into this trek with all sorts of trepidation. This is the main destination of the trail with a beach, waterfall, and archaeology found up the End of Valley Trail. The writer and/or publisher of this website is not responsible for any accidents, injuries, rescues, inconvenience, or loss of life by anyone attempting any of the hikes or activities on this website. Learn more >, ADVERTISE: The pali, or cliffs, provide a rugged grandeur of deep, narrow valleys ending abruptly at the sea. The valley is one of the earths most beautiful natural wonders, including a remote beach framed by grooved peaks. 635 E Kalalau Dr , Oro Valley, AZ 85755 is currently not for sale. Zestimate Home Value: $70,160. [1] Outside magazine rated it as one of "The 20 Most Dangerous Hikes" in the world, noting that in addition to the dangers of the trail itself, more than 100 people have died swimming on the trail's remote beaches. It was . Fun Facts about Valleys for Kids. Having a hiking buddy there to spot you and/or calm you down in case of a freakout is invaluable. Youll immediately be surrounded by forest. It was very stunning to see the valley and also see waterfall on the backdrop. Na Pali means "High Cliffs". If you do, however, decide to embark on a trek into the embrace of this esteemed valley, be prepared for an unforgettable trip as you commune with nature. Lush green rainforest, colorful and prominent mountain ridges, and the sound of ocean surf will accompany as you make this 11 mile coastal journey through this magnificent landscape. [12], In August 2014 According to the Kauai Police Department, a hiker died when he fell over the edge and landed on the rocks roughly 50 feet below. The thing about hiking up the side of a stream passing waterfall after waterfall is that each swimming hole tempts you to jump in. Some Hawaii residents have posted online complaints about illegal campers in Kalalau, referencing videos posted online by some of those same campers. Kalalau Valley Lookout: 1 hours & 20 minutes Princeville: 1 hour & 20 minutes Hanalei: 1 hour & 30 minutes Average Annual Rainfall Waimea: 19 inches (48 cm) per year Poip: 36 inches (91 cm) per year Mt. Once the sun pops out over the mountain around noon, its prime time for sunbathing and swimming. Kalalau Valley, Hawaii Kauai is often considered to be one of Hawaii's most beautiful islands. Get an early start to avoid overexertion in the midday heat. The Kalalau Valley is about 2 miles deep and half a mile wide (I looked it up on Wikipedia). Hikers are allowed to camp at Hanakoa Valley one night with a valid Kalalau permit.[7]. Follow the trail down to the stream. Also, a portion of the Kalalau Trail is shown as a black line. The 11-mile trail is the only way to access the Na Pali Coast and Kalalau Valley by land. This 11 mile stretch of coast is the original trail used by the Hawaiians who lived in Kalalau Valley and other valleys along the Napali. The trees then fall and topple the rock walls causing permanent damage. You could always drive to the trailhead, leave your pack, drive back to Haena Beach to park the car, then walk back to the trailhead pack-free. This makes it one of the greatest natural barriers on Earth. Fourteen years ago, when he graduated from Meharry Medical College at the top of his class, he was called the doctor most likely to succeed. Think about it: this is not a trail that a casual outsider looking to cause trouble would decide to tackle on a whim. Kalalau Trail trekkers tend not to be sticklers for rules heres hoping that the park authorities arent either! Please be aware of the new rules for the whole Haena State Park area. As we mentioned before, here you will find one of the greatest views in all of Hawaii. Hakutulokset haulle "Reef Smart Guides" Rakuten Kobossa. [1] [2] [3] Contents 1 Route 2 Reviews The N Pali Coast is rugged and is inaccessible to automobiles. Water purification system The water from all the streams and waterfalls on the trail is not safe to drink unless you sterilize it: try. If you want to visit the Kalalau Trail in 2023, read this! Legal campers stay outside the valley in the designated camping area within roughly 300 feet (91m) of Kalalau beach. [9] Klein was later sentenced to five years in prison. Waikiki Beach, and Diamond Head State Monument, Oahu, are two of the most popular attractions in Hawaii. APN 219481470. The valley is located in the N Pali Coast State Park and houses the Kalalau Beach. Well, it was time to explore Kalalau Valley. We woke up sometime between 7 and 8 and crawled out of our tents. We've updated both travel guides with a lot of new great information for potential visitors (and those who've been a time or two as well). summer). The valley walls tower steeply more than 2,000 feet above the lush valley floor where people built magnificent, terraced gardens, and tended to fruitful taro patches, the remnants of which can still . The Kalalau Trail truly is a bucket list hike. The most common plants are screwpine and O'hia trees, in addition to the wide presence of Taro, Maia, and Wauke plants. Theres not much info on the Web about Kalalau Falls but from what I could find, the official name of it is Davis Falls. The stories on this website are provided for entertainment and informational purposes only. [4], Hanakoa Valley contains Hanakoa Falls and stream but the valley is a hanging valley with no access to the beach. But honestly? These links do not cost you anything and help provide the necessary funding to maintain this website. The Kalalau Trail is one of the adventurous hiking trails in the world. The water at Hanakapiai is usually clear and ankle-knee deep with enough rocks visible above the surface to rock-hop across. There are several water sources along the trail which allow hikers to refill and hydrate, but stream water is generally not safe to drink and requires treatment. The Kalalau Trail is exhilarating, exhausting, terrifying, drop-dead stunning, and positively one of the best hikes you could ever hope to embark on. Many drownings have occurred here. The only legal ways to access the valley are by kayak or by hiking the Kalalau Trail. Kalalau Valley, Hawaii. If you dont have time to hike the full Kalalau Trail, save it for another time and just do the day hike to Hanakapaiai. It is the responsibility of the reader to use common sense and good judgment by interpreting and using the information to safely enjoy any outdoor activities. Hiking and any outdoor activity can be dangerous and has many potential hazards. | Web usage privacy. Waterfalls and swift flowing streams continue to cut these narrow valleys while the sea carves cliffs at their mouths. [13], Panoramic view from the Kalalau trail of the Kalalau Valley and beach. The area hosts a stunning blend of Hawaiian scenery, featured by vibrant blue waters, joined with tall mountain peaks and woodland valleys studded with waterfalls and streams, in addition to the wildlife, which often attracts photographers and those with an appreciation for the virgin wilderness. Kalalau Valley is located on the Hawaiian island of Kaua'i. Hiking Permits are required to hike past Hanakpaieven if you dont plan to camp. Be aware that it is not safe to swim to Honopu Beach during winter when the surf is too strong. * Hawaii-Guide.com is not a booking agent, accommodation provider, establishment, or tour operator. Hanakapiai Beach is lovely but not safe for swimming. The first part is the worst, but there are a few similar harrowing cliff walks in the mile 7-9 area. A lot of sources recommend leaving your car unlocked so that thieves wont break any windows if they want to get into your car, but if your car rental company offers coverage for break-ins theres really no reason not to lock it (note: I rented a car from Dollar and they covered break-ins). James Randklev/Getty Images The trail does have a history with erratic behavior, mysterious deaths and baffling discoveries. If you wish to continue on the Kalalau Valley Trail, turn right after the stream crossing and follow this stream into the valley. Kauai Island, which is the home of the valley, is considered to be the oldest inhabited of the main Hawaiian Islands and the only island that King Kamehameha did not occupy to unite all the Hawaiian Islands. A comfortable pack and boots, layers, wool socks, rain gear, etc you know the drill. After hiking down Red Hill, it is about a half mile to Kalalau Beach requiring crossing Kalalau stream. Kalalau Valleys summers are hot and cloudy, just like the rest of Kauai Island. The origin of the trees is disputed. Story on a recent joint enforcement and cleanup effort at Kalalau Valley on Kauai. There is also a count of the number of days with wet weather, when precipitation amounts to 0.01 inches (0.25 millimetres) or more. 115. Kalalau Valley. It contains 0 bedroom and 0 bathroom. The sites on the far end of the beach, near the waterfall, are the most popular and have the best views of the beach. Total elevation gain to the falls from Hanakapiai beach is 760 ft. Kalalau has a flowing stream and a composting toilet. This is NOT the trek for you if youve never carried a heavy pack for multiple days on challenging terrain, or are scared of heights. Alternatively, you can park your car at Haena County Park, which is used for Haena Beach and the Haena Beach Park campground. If you can't or don't want to day hike to Hanakapiai Beach, at least try to make it to this overlook (one-mile round trip). From 8 mile, it is only 2 more miles to Kalalau Beach. Access to the Kalalau Valley is controlled. Waialeale: 432 inches (1,097 cm) per year Princeville: 85 inches (216 cm) per year Kapaa: 48 inches (122 cm) per year Kauai State Parks More strenuous hiking begins as the steep switchback trail climbs 800 feet out of Hanakpaivalley. This is a great day hike while staying at the beach. Camping is only allowed at Hanakoa or Kalalau. They're comfortable and light to wear, and unlike spray . The Kalalau Valley is located in the Napali Coast State Park and houses the Kalalau Beach, set on the northwestern side of the Kauai Island in the US State of Hawaii. View sales history, tax history, home value estimates, and overhead views. 7# Kalalau Valley - USA. Before descending into Kalalau, make sure to take a moment to really consider the sign which encourages visitorsto remember that Kalalau is a sacred valley to the Hawaiiansand to departknowing that you have preserved it for future generations. . The valley is reached by a trail which is an 11-mile hike away from the last northern point on the north coast at Kee beach and a mile away from the beach of Kalalau. The Kalalau Valley is located in the Napali Coast State Park and houses the Kalalau Beach, set on the northwestern side of the Kauai Island in the US State of Hawaii. We had hiked 11 miles on the Kalalau Trail, set up camp and witnessed an epic moonrise the day before. Unreal Hawaii is not affiliated with the state of Hawaii. Expert hikers or trail runners can complete the roundtrip 22 miles (35km) trek in a day, but the average hiker requires a two-day minimum and will camp along the trail. The word "Na Pali" literally translates as "High Cliffs.". Refresh the page, check Medium 's site. And although they may be far away when you are looking at them, wave heights vary greatly between sets and getting washed off the rocks is a very common way people get injured or even drown. If you're planning to visit this enchanting valley, you must give up your vehicles and other means of transport since it is inaccessible to any sort of . What are three interesting facts about valleys? The trail can be steep and rocky in places, but trust us - it's the climb you'll notice most. Mahalo! All the streams are susceptible to contamination with leptospirosis, a bacterium that is transmitted from the urine of infected rodents. Watch how to say and pronounce "kalalau"!Listen our video to compare your pronunciation!The video is produced by yeta.io. Every single person I encountered was kindhearted, adventurous, and some degree of spiritual this is the sort of person Kalalau attracts. Valley Facts. Just walk back toward the Kalalau Trail from camp and youll see the junction. Check the DLNR website before setting out on the Kalalau Trail in case its been closed due to flooding or construction. Therefore, hiking is the only real way to get deep into the valley. 2023 Frugal Frolicker All Rights Reserved. Located on the south shore of Oahu, Waikiki Beach is a stunning stretch of white sand beach that has drawn visitors for decades. All maps, graphics, flags, photos and original descriptions 2023 worldatlas.com. The trail is located between the ocean and the towering bluffs of the Na Pali Coast and drops to sea level at the Hanakapiai and Kalalau beaches. Sleeping: A sleeping pad is must. To continue past Hankapiai Beach to Hanakoa Valley, hikers must obtain a camping permit from the Hawai'i Department of Land and Natural Resources. Kalalau Trail closed due to weather/landslide, Kalalau | Hiking the Kalalau Trail | HD with Drone Footage, Top Reasons You NEED to Experience Kalalau Trail, First 2-miles of the Kalalau Trail to reopen with requirements. Kalalau is the largest valley along the coast spanning two miles wide and two miles in depth to the back of the valley. Winter (December-February) is less crowded, but more rainy. This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-NonCommercial-NoDerivs 3.0 Unported License. 4 miles round trip to Hanakapiai Beach; 22 miles round trip to Kalalau Beach, Kauai's Top Hotels, Resorts, B&Bs, & Vacation Rentals, Kauai's Best Tours, Excursions, & Adventures. As we crossed the stream we could see that this stream was a huge cascading waterfall. The trail begins with a two-mile hike to the beautiful Hanakapiai Beach. All Rights Reserved. Facilities include a composting toilet and two roofed shelters. Learn about the best time to visit Kauai , Our Kauai travel tips & recommendations , Explore Kauai Hotels & Resorts Search Now. 4. There are actually two Kalalau Trail parking lots by the trailhead and Kee Beach: the one right next to it, and another one just a minute down the road at Haena State Park. Violation of this rule is a petty misdemeanor under Hawaii law, and a conviction will result in a criminal record in addition to penalties. Do not, under any circumstance, continue on to Kalalau Beach if you are not an experienced and confident hiker. Cory spotted this as nice hermit-free swimming hole with deep water. Disclaimer of Warranty and Limitation of Liability. As a side trip (extended day hike), you can follow the unmaintainedHanakapiai Falls Trailupstream for two more miles to reach the spectacular 100-ft. high Hanakapiai Falls. Apermitis required to hike this part of the trail whether or not you plan to camp. The trail runs approximately 11 miles (18km) along the island's north shore from Kee Beach to the Kalalau Valley. Klein was apprehended months later in Wailua on April 6, 2013 and subsequently indicted for attempted second-degree murder. The Kalalau Trail has 3 main landmarks / stopping points / segments: A popular day hike suitable for any level hiker, this segment of the trail is slippery and muddy (particularly in winter). The sun came out and gave us a phenomenal panoramic view of Kalalau lookout. 1. Many people opt to camp in hammocks rather than tents: youll find plenty of trees fit for hammock hanging here. Today, staying in the valley is illegal without a permit from the state. Be warned, you must cross the Hanakapiai stream here and its a well-known spot for hikers to run into trouble due to rapidly rising waters. Jordan Tan/Shutterstock. We also receive a small commission from travel partners for some of the links found on this website. This website's use is your expressly conditioned acceptance of the terms, conditions, and disclaimers found within our Disclaimer of Warranty and Limitation of Liability page without any modifications. During summer, some people like to swim over to the secluded Honopu Beach said to be one of the most beautiful beaches in Hawaii and/or the world. Wepersonally prefer the campsites on the Kalalau side of the river. The surf is strong, but the water is shallow enough that you can wade out a bit and swim before the point where the waves crash. So now what? Kalalau Valley was inhabited by the native Hawaiian tribes, where about 2500 people used to live. This is a fairly strenuous hike. I dont want you to be filled with dread and second guess your decision to hike to Kalalau like I did, so here is the guide I wish Id had beforehand for you, my friends! ), ^ Top of page | Home | Search | Archives, Unreal Hawaii is a digital magazine for people that love the Hawaii outdoors. Hikers will see a lush landscape while traveling through the valleys, as well as tall cliffs aligning the ocean. Kalalau Trail "Crawler's Ledge & Naked Hikers Outdoors Together 173 subscribers Subscribe 86 128K views 6 years ago Here is the most exposed part of Kauai's Kalalau Trail, "Crawler's Ledge,". On the top right portion of the image the end of the paved road is shown as a black line. Backpacking Itineraries & Average Time After the first leg of the climb, at about half a mile, you emerge on a red dirt path that borders the cliffside overlooking the gorgeous NaPali Coast. The rest of the trail can be equally as dangerous in inclement weather, especially at about mile seven where the infamous Crawlers Ledge starts where the path narrows, hugging the mountain closely on one side and dropping off steeply to the tumultuous sea on the other. Tucked away along the N Pali Coast is Kalalau Valley, arguably one of the earths greatest natural wonders. Click here for information about N Pali Coast State Park regulations for hiking, camping, and boating (including kayaking). View more property details, sales history and Zestimate data on Zillow. After you finish your first mile you'll really start to be rewarded with astunning view of the NaPali Coast. All camping areas are located on shaded terraces near streams. Tips for camping in Kalalau: Snacks and treats: It's worth the added weight on your pack. Because Kalalau was historically an agricultural valley, there was one experiment of allowing a caretaker to go in and replant a taro and vegetable patch, sort of as a token gesture to the Hawaiian community. Maybe occasionally? As we mentioned, exploring the trail safely is of the utmost importance. We missed this turn and kept hiking straight following a very well defined trail. It is also a major archaeological site; although many of the rock walls and intricate irrigation structures were destroyed by cattle brought in by ranchers to graze here in the first part of the 20th century. We were told by some locals that this trail is much more beautiful than the Kalalau Valley Trail so we were stoked. The sheltered spots in the bluffs within the 1-2 miles before Kalalau Beach which have amazing views of the coast. Edited version of a high resolution USGS topographical chart of the Kalalau Trail. Tucked away along the N Pali Coast is Kalalau Valley, arguably one of the earth's greatest natural wonders. This information is not intended to give specific advice on any trail. Guide of Hawaii, LLC is a privately-owned (non-government) business. Azure blue waters lie beneath you to the right overlooking Kee Beach below. Surrounded by cliffs measuring more than 610 meters high, this natural hideaway is often referred to as Kaua'i's Cathedral and is only accessible by foot, kayak, or helicopter. Then book a helicopter tour for a spectacular view of the lush green Garden Isle below. Visitors cannot drive into the state park as the terrain is to rough. This pristine hideaway, decorated with a remote beach and surrounded by fluted peaks, is regarded as Kauais cathedral. Auvergne-Rhne-Alpes, rgion of east-central France created in 2016 by the union of the former rgions of Auvergne and Rhne-Alpes. As you begin the trail, you'll traverse through a lush jungle-like scene of pothos and another philodendron. 620 E Kalalau Dr, Oro Valley, AZ is a single family home that contains 2,526 sq ft and was built in 2022. Map of Trail. Because people camp literally right next to the lit parking lot, break-ins arent usually an issue here. The next section connects Hanakapiai stream to Hanakoa Valley, six miles from the trailhead. Check out these Kauai hiking trail information links and get ready to explore! Ask to store your belongings at whatever hotel you stay at before starting the trek so that theyre safe. It is believed that the Kalalau Valley was inhabited until 1919, farming taro from a massive complex of adjoining fields. Guide of Hawaii, LLC is a privately-owned (non-government) business. Kauai's Na Pali Coast is famous around the world as one of the most beautiful coastlines on earth - and along that coast, you'll find the Kalalau Valley, a verdant and rugged stretch of land that is just as striking, but virtually unknown. Amazingly, it was inhabited up until 1919. The Rent Zestimate for this home is $1,995/mo, which has increased by $108/mo in the last 30 days. Make sure you bring a small pack for taking your valuables and some water and snacks around with you during the day. You may be able to get away with parking at Haena County Park, but do so at your own risk. Throughout the years, the valley wasn't as rich as the other islands with their tropical selection of animals. You can also enjoy fresh passionfruit straight from the trees! The trail drops to sea level at the beaches of Hanakpaiand Kalalau. Banner Ads (managed by BuySellAds) > Zestimate Home Value: $680,900. The trail traverses 5 valleys before ending at Kalalau Beach where it is blocked by sheer, fluted pali. These easy to wear deet-free mosquito wristbands to minimize bites. ft. single-family home is a 3 bed, 2.0 bath property. The Kalalau is probably the most frequently used hiking trail in Hawaii, spreading over 11 miles. The Kalalau Trail provides the only land access to this part of the rugged coast. On the second day of our trip the weather was perfect. See the estimate, review home details, and search for homes nearby. The valley is surrounded by cliffs more than 610 meters (2,000 feet) high. To create your own directions, see this Google Map. One of the most popular hikes - which includes a stop at a 300ft waterfall - is the Hanakapi'ai Falls Trail, which starts at K Beach on Kauai's north end. Mahalo to the dedicated trail crew who opened the Kalalau Trail after one year. By Darius Kila. 6. From this point, it is still another grueling 6.5 miles to Kalalau Valley. The only legal ways to access the valley are by kayak or by hiking the Kalalau Trail . Hanakoa campsite sits at the approximate halfway point (mile 6), but its set inland by a stream rather than on a beach i.e. Portions of the trail in this section are very narrow and the drop-off on the ocean side is severe. Even in the summertime, when the beach is deep with white sand, people sometimes venture along the lava rock shelves on both ends of the beach. The Kalalau Trail provides the only land access to this part of the rugged coast. Jungle-gym like hau trees surrounded this part of the stream. For what its worth, I met several people who either didnt book a permit, only booked their first couple days just to feel it out, or ended up starting a day later than planned and were hiking the Kalalau Trail without a permit on their last day. Kalalau is an amazing place; it used to be home to over 6,000 indigenous people who lived sustainably off the land. It is a very challenging hike-round trip being 22 miles through 5 valleys and an elevation gain of 10,000 feet. You've climbed to the highest point between Kee and Hanakapiai; about 500 ft. above sea level. I felt extremely safe the entire time I was on the trail. 6# Valley of Flowers - India. Better to wear a hat instead, if anything. Foreign influences brought diseases that decimated the Hawaiian population on the Na Pali and throughout the Hawaiian islands. Coming here is breathtaking. 695 E Kalalau Dr, Oro Valley, AZ is a vacant land home. Sleeping bag It doesnt get too cold at night on the trail (upper-50s at the lowest), so instead of a sleeping bag consider buying a cheap sheet and fleece blanket ($20 total at Walmart) or just wear extra layers. Jakob Owens / Unsplash. It can take up to two hours just to reach the falls and requires numerous stream crossings. (4 miles round trip), This KalalauTrail.com website is primarily designed to provide general. The Kalalau lookout peaks at 4,00 feet above sea level, where visitors can find the Kalalau lookout after the 18-mile mark on Kokee road. Hotels, flights, car rentals, experiences and more! dont plan to spend any more time than necessary here. A local rule of thumb is to watch the ocean for 20 minutes before going in or walking in a tidal zone. Accessing Na Pali Much of Na Pali is inaccessible due to its characteristic sheer cliffs that drop straight down, thousands of feet into the ocean. Even with all my research, I had some serious concerns about tackling the Kalalau Trail in Kauai. A very special place. You're well on your way down to Hanakapiaai Beach now, and be sure to enjoy the trek down - it's mostly uphill on the way back. An estimation of 50,000 visitors uses this spectacular trail annually. Our popular Summary Guidesheets are now included. There is an abundance of good camping and lots to explore in Kalalau. Its mostly dry with only occasional mud, and offers the most sensational coastal views of the entire trek. I saw the patch growing once when I was there, but I never saw the people. This incident seems to have increased awareness of illegal activity in Kalalau Valley, and may have helped lead to a May 2017 crackdown on illegal campers in Kalalau by officers of the Department of Land and Natural resources (DLNR). Many native Hawaiians lived in the valley into the 20th century, farming taro from a vast complex of terraced fields. The first section of the trail is a 2 mile (3km) stretch from Kee Beach to Hanakapiai stream and beach. The short portion of the trail to this point can be a lot of work, but this is one of the most gorgeous views of the hike. There is a small waterfall in this area that is used for bathing and washing dishes. Kauai weather is consistently warm year-round. It is also a major archaeological site; although many of the rock walls and intricate irrigation structures were destroyed by cattle brought in by ranchers to graze here in the first part of the 20th century. The 1,993 sq. ~ Trusted by Millions of Hawaii Visitors Annually ~. Other endemics include the endangered Schiedea attenuata., and previously unknown plant species have been discovered there [1]. Native and introduced tropical plant species abound. The rest of your gear youll just leave at camp. If you do decide to go, make sure you swim in a group, have fins on, and return to Kalalau before the midday winds pick up. This 8-mile trek is tough - not for beginners - and follows the famed Kalalau Trail along the coast to Hanakapi'ai Beach. If you were to head left instead, youd be going up into Kalalau Valley (which you should totally explore one day).